General: The European buckthorn is a fast-growing shrub or small tree that grows loosely in nature. It typically grows together with alder, birch, pine and oak on fresh to wet, acidic soils. The leaves are broadly elliptical, dark green and slightly shiny. The buckthorn forms pea-sized stone fruits, which first turn red and then purple-black. The buckthorn is both wind stable and very frost hardy. The bark, which was previously used for medicinal purposes, smells putrid when freshly grated and is therefore eponymous.
Care as a bonsai: As a bonsai it is particularly suitable because of its beautiful, slightly shiny leaves, the attractive bark (very dark with white lenticels) and the fruits that ripen in late summer and the bright yellow autumn color. In addition, the buckthorn is very easy on pruning and, if pruned heavily, will also sprout out of the old wood. By regularly shortening the new shoot, the plant develops a dense, finely branched crown with thin branches. Corrections of shape with wire are possible, but it is best to do this early as the wood will become quite hard later. Repotting is not a problem as many fine roots are formed. The buckthorn grows well even in shady locations, but prefers the sun. In winter it does not need any special protection.
